GRG Summer Series Episode One - Salmonflies
The Gallatin River GUides Summer Film Series Begins!
On July 21st we released the first episode in our four part summer film series.
Episode one - Salmonflies
Welcome to the first episode of the Gallatin River Guides Summer Film Series! We are excited to be sharing some of our favorite summer moments from fly fishing in Southwest Montana.
In this episode we share with you the epic Salmonfly hatch. Some of our guides were lucky enough to catch some great fish and showcase one of the most epic hatches to fish in Montana.
Enjoy some dry fly eats, big fish, and good vibes. Stay tuned for Episode Two Coming Soon...Watch NOW
Big Browns on big bugs
The beginning of July usually starts with a bang out here in Southwest Montana. The salmonfly hatch let's us know that summer is in full swing and gives anglers the rare opportunity of using large dry flies to target our favorite fish. There really is nothing quite like seeing a flying burrito slap down on the surface of the river and then a healthy fish come up with no hesitation and smash that bug. Over to the right we have the result of just that!
Today's Tip: Casting
One of the most challenging aspects of fly-fishing is mastering the delivery system, or casting. Giving a good presentation that results in a fish eating your flies stems from putting them in exactly the right spot. Different situations call for different methods of casting.
Utilizing these casting techniques while on the water can help streamline your fly delivery system and increase your success rate on the water.
Roll Cast:
This method is commonly used when you have tight cover from trees or bushes right behind you and can keep you from losing flies on your back cast if you were to use a regular overhead cast. The roll cast uses water tension to put a flex into your rod and allows you to turn the line over on itself out in front of you to cast your flies forwards.
Water Tension Cast:
Another technique that is commonly used when your back cast is limited by heavy cover. For this cast we use the current of the river to pull all the line downriver of where we are attempting to cast. You then use the drag of the current against the line to put a bend into your rod while moving your rod in the direction you are casting and then finish pointing at your designated target and using the flex of your rod to launch your line and rig to your target.
The Double Haul:
A more advanced addition onto your typical overhead cast that can be extremely helpful in high wind situations and getting more distance into your cast. An angler will use their non dominant hand to pull line in the opposite direction they are moving their rod in. During your back cast, the non dominant hand pulls line forwards and during your forward cast your non dominant hand pulls line back towards your body and downwards. This added motion in the line will create a more significant bend in your rod and allow you to tap into more power through loading your rod more than normal.
Trouble deciding what flies to throw?
Out here in Big Sky, Montana we are fortunate to have some fantastic fishing in the summertime, however, having the right flies can be the deciding factor for a successful day on the water. Get a good idea of what you need while on the water from our Fishing Reports or swing by our shop in Big Sky to get the best assortment of bugs for your day on the water!
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Outfitter: Michael Donaldson, Montana License #36853 GRG operates under a special use permit with the Custer Gallatin National Forest and is an equal opportunity provider.